Democracy Needs Fresh Voices—Seun Kuti’s MOP Fights for INEC Recognition Before 2026
The Movement of the People (MOP), a political group rooted in the ideals of the late Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has formally urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to approve its long-standing request for registration as a political party.
Under the campaign banner “Register To Rise: The People’s Voice for Electoral Justice,” MOP said it is seeking to address systemic barriers to political participation in Nigeria, particularly the prolonged delay in its registration ahead of the 2027 general election.
In a statement issued by MOP’s Protem Chairman, musician and activist Seun Kuti, the group stressed the urgency of being registered before INEC’s expected statutory suspension of party registration in early 2026.
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“Nigeria’s democracy cannot flourish if new political voices are continuously shut out,” Kuti said, pointing to the fact that since 2018, INEC has not registered a single new party while 72 others were deregistered. He described this as a dangerous restriction that narrows the spectrum of political choice and weakens democratic representation.
According to MOP, it has submitted four formal applications since 2021, with the latest filed on March 1, 2025, yet INEC has not moved forward with the process.
“For four years, we’ve met all requirements and followed due process, but INEC continues to delay. This is not just about MOP — it’s about safeguarding the democratic space for all Nigerians,” the group stated.
To push its cause, MOP announced plans to intensify digital activism, grassroots mobilization, and strategic alliances with other democratic advocacy groups.
However, INEC has dismissed claims of inaction. When contacted, INEC’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, insisted the commission has not ignored MOP’s application. “That’s definitely not true,” she said in a phone interview, adding that she would verify the situation with the relevant department.
As the 2027 election draws nearer, the battle between MOP and the electoral body could test Nigeria’s commitment to political pluralism and inclusive governance.
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